Today, the House and Senate reconvene in Washington following the August recess period. Staff and trustees of grantmaking foundations are encouraged to communicate with your Senators about HR 4719, the "America Gives Act," passed by the House before the recess period. The House passed the America Gives More Act with a strong bipartisan vote of 277 to 130 in July. Majority Leader Harry Reid and Minority Leader Mitch McConnell must bring the America Gives More Act (H.R. 4719) to the Senate floor for a vote before it can become law. The Act makes permanent three tax extenders — including the IRA charitable rollover — that have been proven to expand charitable giving. It also includes the private foundation excise tax simplification. 

The Council on Foundations has updated it's advocacy toolkit, now entitled "Speak out in September," which may be accessed here.